Everton Under-23s to swap football boots for sleeping bags

Everton Under-23s manager David Unsworth has thrown his full support behind Everton in the Community’s upcoming Goodison Sleepout by signing up himself and his entire Under-23 squad!

The Blues legend, his 20-strong team of players and full backroom team will be arriving at Goodison Park on Friday 25 November armed with their sleeping bags instead of football boots as they join other fans and Everton Business Club members in sleeping out in the Park End stand to experience the challenges that homeless people face on a daily basis.

Captained by Jonjoe Kenny, the full U23 squad will leave the comfort of their homes and brave the elements as they help to raise much needed funds for EitC to help identify and support vulnerable people across Liverpool.

Blues Giant Joe Royle will also be in attendance on the evening to share Everton stories from years gone by alongside Unsy and Under-23s Assistant Manager John Ebbrell and the trio of former players will also be joined by EitC Executive Chair Denise Barrett-Baxendale who will be on hand to provide insight on the charity’s work to date around homelessness.

Speaking about taking part in the Goodison Sleepout, Unsworth said:

“Having worked closely with Denise and Everton in the Community over the years I am well aware of the fantastic work that we do in supporting vulnerable and underprivileged people across Liverpool. Together we can play a big part in helping to raise awareness of homelessness and myself and my team are committed to making a contribution to supporting these individuals when they hit difficult times.

“Looking after the homeless is the right thing to do, everyone should have a roof over their heads and everyone should have the right opportunities available to them when they are struggling. In my role and in their role as an aspiring U-23 player, we have a responsibility to reach out and help those in need.

Blues Under-23 captain Jonjoe Kenny echoed his manager’s thoughts:

“I’m really looking forward to it. Everyone deserves a chance in life and at times we don’t realise just how lucky we are so it’ll be great for us to get involved and give back. I think there might be a few lads who might get a bit cold on the night but it’s all for a great cause so we will give it a good go!”